Based on Dr. Maria Montessori’s time-tested approach to early development. The Montessori method introduces five different areas of instruction. These five areas are: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Culture and Math.
Practical Life:
Practical Life exercises help to instil care for self, for others, and for the environment. Activities include tasks children see as part of the daily routine in their home, such as pouring, scooping buttoning and sorting. This develops muscular coordination, enabling movement and the exploration of their surroundings. They learn to work at a task from beginning to end, and to develop their powers of control, concentration and observation.
Sensorial:
Sensorial materials serve as tools for development. In this focus, Children build cognitive skills. They learn to order and classify materials through; touching, seeing, smelling, tasting and listening. Also, they explore the physical properties of their surrounding environment. This stimulates their powers of deduction.
Language:
Using the ‘phonetic’ method – learning the sounds of the letters – reading and word building is learnt. Through mastering these sounds, children learn to build words. They start with three letters words, then four, until they are ready to read more advanced materials. By mastering a series of games and specifically designed materials the art of reading is learnt.
Culture:
The culture curriculum explores the areas of art, science, botany, geography and history. These areas are introduced by learning about different cultures around the world. Working with cultural materials helps the children become aware that they are part of a larger family of humanity. This nurtures understanding and respect for others.
Math:
The early math activities help children learn and understand number concepts. This is done through working with the Montessori math materials. The concept of symbol vs. quantity is learnt quite early. Children learn to understand the concept of numbers by working with these materials. This work gives children a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles. It also prepares them for later abstract reasoning. Which helps to develop problem-solving capabilities.
For further information on the Montessori method or to arrange a tour of the Growing Stars Montessori School please feel free to contact us on 0490 350 861 or [email protected]
